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| Makana, often known as 'Nxele', was born in the late 18th century. He was a person of great magnetism and energy. He gained a reputation as a prophet, diviner and war-doctor and gathered a large following. He was very interested in Christianity and supported many of its values, but later in life, he became disillusioned and turned against it.
He had a strong belief in his own powers and in 1817 he attempted to demonstrate these by gathering his followers at Cove Rock (Gompo) where he said they would witness the resurrection of their ancestors and cattle. Even when this did not happen he retained his credibility.
He supported Ndlambe in his conflict with Ngqika and took part in the Battle of Amalinde. His anger at the action of Somerset in burning huts and taking cattle as retribution on behalf of Ngqika led him to work with Ndlambe and lead the attack on Grahamstown in 1819.
The force of 10 000 warriors was unable to break through the guns of the defenders. Makana was captured and sent to Robben Island. He attempted to escape in 1820, but the boat overturned and he was drowned. His followers refused to believe that he was dead and waited for many years for his return.
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